1998 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Impala (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 145 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Impala, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Chevrolet Impala (305 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2004 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 318 | Impala |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
